U.S. patent application number 16/587623 was filed with the patent office on 2020-01-23 for faucet handle with angled interface.
The applicant listed for this patent is Delta Faucet Company. Invention is credited to Derek A. Brown, Kyle R. Davidson, Ryan J. Shaw, Kurt J. Thomas, Joshua Wales.
Application Number | 20200024837 16/587623 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 69162841 |
Filed Date | 2020-01-23 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20200024837 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Wales; Joshua ; et
al. |
January 23, 2020 |
FAUCET HANDLE WITH ANGLED INTERFACE
Abstract
A faucet assembly including a handle that rotates about a
rotational axis extending perpendicular to an angled interface for
adjusting a first water parameter. A dial is supported for rotation
independent of the handle for adjusting a second water
parameter.
Inventors: |
Wales; Joshua;
(Indianapolis, IN) ; Davidson; Kyle R.;
(Noblesville, IN) ; Thomas; Kurt J.;
(Indianapolis, IN) ; Brown; Derek A.; (Lizton,
IN) ; Shaw; Ryan J.; (Carmel, IN) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Delta Faucet Company |
Indianapolis |
IN |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
69162841 |
Appl. No.: |
16/587623 |
Filed: |
September 30, 2019 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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15387247 |
Dec 21, 2016 |
10428497 |
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16587623 |
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14446778 |
Jul 30, 2014 |
9567734 |
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15387247 |
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13182430 |
Jul 13, 2011 |
8820705 |
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14446778 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E03C 1/055 20130101;
F16K 31/60 20130101; E03C 1/0412 20130101; G05D 23/1393 20130101;
Y10T 137/9464 20150401; F16K 31/02 20130101; G05D 23/1306
20130101 |
International
Class: |
E03C 1/05 20060101
E03C001/05; F16K 31/60 20060101 F16K031/60; F16K 31/02 20060101
F16K031/02; G05D 23/13 20060101 G05D023/13 |
Claims
1. A faucet comprising: a handle attachment base; and a handle
coupled to the handle attachment base and supported for rotation
about a rotational axis to control a first water parameter; and a
dial supported for rotation relative to the handle to control a
second water parameter.
2. The faucet of claim 1, wherein: the handle attachment base has a
longitudinal base axis; the handle has a longitudinal handle axis;
and the rotational axis is angularly offset from the longitudinal
base axis and the longitudinal handle axis, such that the angular
position of the longitudinal handle axis relative to the
longitudinal base axis varies as the handle is rotated about the
rotational axis.
3. The faucet of claim 2, wherein: the handle attachment base
defines a handle movement plane angularly offset from the
longitudinal base axis; and the rotational axis extends
perpendicular to the handle movement plane.
4. The faucet of claim 3, wherein the longitudinal handle axis is
oriented at a first angle relative to the rotational axis, and the
longitudinal handle axis is oriented at a second angle relative to
the longitudinal base axis, the first angle being substantially
constant and the second angle varying as the handle is rotated
about the rotational axis.
5. The faucet of claim 3, wherein in a first angular position of
the handle the longitudinal handle axis extends in a vertical
direction, and in a second angular position of the handle the
longitudinal handle axis extends substantially perpendicular to the
first angular position in a horizontal direction.
6. The faucet of claim 1, further comprising: a first position
sensor operably coupled to the handle to detect the position of the
handle relative to the handle attachment base; a controller
electrically coupled to the first position sensor; and an
electrically operable valve operably coupled to the controller and
configured to control the first water parameter of water flowing
through an outlet in response to the position of the handle
detected by the first position sensor.
7. The faucet of claim 6, further comprising: a second position
sensor operably coupled to the dial to detect the position of the
dial relative to the handle; the controller electrically coupled to
the second position sensor; and the electrically operable valve
configured to control the second water parameter of water flowing
through the outlet in response to the position of the dial detected
by the second position sensor.
8. The faucet of claim 7, wherein the first water parameter is one
of water flow rate and water temperature, and the second water
parameter is one of the other of the water temperature and the
water flow rate.
9. The faucet of claim 1, further including a spout assembly of
which the handle attachment base is a part, the spout assembly
further including a hub defining a vertical axis and a liquid
pathway within the hub.
10. The faucet of claim 9, further comprising a pull-out sprayhead
removably coupled to the spout assembly.
11. The faucet of claim 9, wherein the dial is operably coupled to
the hub.
12. The faucet of claim 1, wherein the dial is operably coupled to
an end of the handle.
13. The faucet of claim 1, further comprising a temperature sensor
configured to detect the temperature of water delivered to an
outlet, and a light configured to provide an indication of the
temperature of water detected by the temperature sensor.
14. A faucet comprising: a spout assembly including: a hub defining
a vertical axis, a liquid pathway extending within the hub, a
handle attachment base extending perpendicular to the hub and
defining a horizontal axis, the handle attachment base including an
end having a first mounting surface; a control handle coupled to
the handle attachment base for rotation from a first position
defining a first setting of a first water parameter and a second
position defining a second setting of the first water parameter,
the control handle including an end having a second mounting
surface; and a control dial coupled to the control handle for
rotation from a first position defining a first setting of a second
water parameter and a second position defining a second setting of
the second water parameter.
15. The faucet of claim 14, wherein the first mounting surface and
the second mounting surface define a handle movement plane
angularly oriented intermediate the vertical axis of the hub of the
spout assembly and the horizontal axis of the handle attachment
base of the spout assembly.
16. The faucet of claim 14, wherein an outer surface of the spout
assembly is electrically conductive such that a user's touch of the
spout assembly is electrically communicated to circuitry coupled to
the spout assembly.
17. The faucet of claim 14, wherein rotation of the control handle
causes altering of the setting of a first potentiometer, and
rotation of the control dial causes altering of the setting of a
second potentiometer.
18. The faucet of claim 14, further comprising: a first position
sensor operably coupled to the control handle to detect the
position of the control handle relative to the handle attachment
base; a controller electrically coupled to the first position
sensor; and an electrically operable valve operably coupled to the
controller and configured to control the first water parameter of
water flowing through an outlet in response to the position of the
control handle detected by the first position sensor.
19. The faucet of claim 18, further comprising: a second position
sensor operably coupled to the control dial to detect the position
of the control dial relative to the control handle; the controller
electrically coupled to the second position sensor; and the
electrically operable valve configured to control the second water
parameter of water flowing through the outlet in response to the
position of the dial detected by the second position sensor.
20. The faucet of claim 19, wherein the first water parameter is
one of water flow rate and water temperature, and the second water
parameter is one of the other of the water temperature and the
water flow rate.
21. The faucet of claim 14, further comprising a pull-out sprayhead
removably coupled to the spout assembly.
22. The faucet of claim 14, wherein the control dial is operably
coupled to the hub.
23. The faucet of claim 14, wherein the control dial is operably
coupled to an end of the control handle.
24. A faucet including: a spout assembly including a handle
attachment portion having a longitudinal axis, the spout assembly
having a handle coupled to the handle attachment portion, the
handle having a longitudinal axis, the handle having a first
position in which the longitudinal axis of the handle attachment
portion is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the handle,
the handle having a second position in which the longitudinal axis
of the handle attachment portion is co-linear with the longitudinal
axis of the handle.
25. The faucet of claim 24, wherein the first position of the
handle provides a "flow off" setting for the faucet, and the second
position of the handle provides a "full hot" setting for the
faucet.
26. The faucet of claim 24, wherein the handle is electrically
isolated from the spout assembly.
27. The faucet of claim 24, further comprising: a position sensor
operably coupled to the handle to detect the position of the handle
relative to the handle attachment portion; a controller
electrically coupled to the position sensor; and an electrically
operable valve operably coupled to the controller and configured to
control water flow through the spout in response to the position of
the handle detected by the position sensor.
28. The faucet of claim 27, wherein the controller directs the
electrically operable valve to control at least one of water
temperature and water flow rate through the spout.
29. The faucet of claim 27, wherein movement of the handle from the
first position to the second position rotates gears located within
the spout assembly, at least one of the gears operably coupled to
the position sensor.
30. The faucet of claim 24, further comprising a dial supported for
rotation relative to the handle.
31. The faucet of claim 30, wherein rotation of the handle controls
a first water parameter, and rotation of the dial controls a second
water parameter.
32. The faucet of claim 31, wherein the first water parameter is
one of water flow rate and water temperature, and the second water
parameter is one of the other of the water temperature and the
water flow rate.
33. The faucet of claim 24, further comprising a pull-out sprayhead
removably coupled to the spout assembly.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application is a continuation-in-part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 15/387,247, filed Dec. 21, 2016, which
is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/446,778,
filed Jul. 30, 2014, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,567,734, which is a
divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/182,430, filed
Jul. 13, 2011, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,820,705, the disclosures of
which are expressly incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to faucets. More
particularly, the present disclosure relates to faucets having a
handle that rotates about an angled interface to adjust a water
parameter.
[0003] Conventional faucets have traditionally included handles or
levers to transfer mechanical motion to a mixing valve or to on/off
valves for controlling water activation, flow rate, and/or
temperature. Such mechanical coupling has limited the types of
motion available for such faucet handles or levers. Additionally,
conventional faucets including a single handle or lever
traditionally control only one water parameter (e.g., water
temperature or flow rate).
[0004] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a faucet
assembly includes a faucet body having a liquid pathway therein. A
selector attachment base includes a longitudinal base axis and
defines a selector movement plane. A selector is coupled to the
selector attachment base, the selector having a longitudinal
selector axis and supported for movement between a plurality of
configurations to control a parameter of liquid through the liquid
pathway of the faucet body. Movement of the selector between the
plurality of configurations is achieved via rotation about a
rotational axis that is perpendicular to the selector movement
plane. The longitudinal selector axis is oriented at a first angle
relative to the rotational axis, and the longitudinal selector axis
is oriented at a second angle relative to the longitudinal base
axis. The first angle is substantially constant and the second
angle varies as the selector moves between the plurality of
configurations.
[0005] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a
faucet assembly includes a spout assembly having a hub defining a
vertical axis, a liquid pathway extending within the hub, and a
handle attachment base extending perpendicular to the hub and
defining a horizontal axis, the handle attachment base including an
end having a first mounting surface. The faucet assembly further
includes a temperature control handle operably coupled to the
handle attachment base for rotation from a first position defining
a first temperature setting and a second position defining a second
temperature setting, the temperature control handle including an
end having a second mounting surface. The first mounting surface
and the second mounting surface define a handle movement plane
angularly oriented intermediate the vertical axis of the hub of the
spout assembly and the horizontal axis of the handle attachment
base of the spout assembly.
[0006] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a
faucet assembly is provided including a spout assembly including a
handle attachment portion having a longitudinal axis, the spout
assembly having handle coupled to the handle attachment portion,
the handle having a longitudinal axis, the handle having a first
position in which the longitudinal axis of the handle attachment
portion is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the handle,
the handle having a second position in which the longitudinal axis
of the handle attachment portion is co-linear with the longitudinal
axis of the handle.
[0007] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a
faucet includes a handle attachment base having a longitudinal base
axis, and a handle coupled to the handle attachment base. The
handle has a longitudinal handle axis and is supported for rotation
about a rotational axis. The rotational axis is angularly offset
from the longitudinal base axis and the longitudinal handle axis,
such that the angular position of the longitudinal handle axis
relative to the longitudinal base axis varies as the handle is
rotated about the rotational axis.
[0008] According to another illustrative embodiment of the present
disclosure, a faucet includes a handle attachment base, and a
handle coupled to the handle attachment base and supported for
rotation about a rotational axis to control a first water
parameter. A dial is supported for rotation relative to the handle
to control a second water parameter.
[0009] According to a further illustrative embodiment of the
present disclosure, a faucet includes a spout assembly including a
hub defining a vertical axis, and a liquid pathway extending within
the hub. A handle attachment base extends perpendicular to the hub
and defines a horizontal axis, the handle attachment base including
an end having a first mounting surface. A control handle is coupled
to the handle attachment base for rotation from a first position
defining a first setting of a first water parameter and second
position defining a second setting of the first water parameter,
the control handle including an end having a second mounting
surface. A control dial is coupled to the control handle for
rotation from a first position defining a first setting of a second
water parameter and a second position defining a second setting of
the second water parameter.
[0010] Additional features of the present disclosure will become
apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the
following detailed description of the presently perceived best mode
of carrying out the disclosure.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] The detailed description of the drawings particularly refers
to the accompanying figures in which:
[0012] FIG. 1a is a perspective view of an illustrative faucet of
the present disclosure, showing a control handle in a first or off
position;
[0013] FIG. 1b is a perspective view similar to FIG. 1a, showing
the control handle in a second or intermediate temperature
position;
[0014] FIG. 1c is a perspective view similar to FIG. 1b, showing
the control handle in a third or hot temperature position;
[0015] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the faucet of FIG.
1;
[0016] FIG. 3a is a detailed perspective view showing the relative
positions of the handle axis, the base axis, and the rotational
axis, with the handle in the first position of FIG. 1a;
[0017] FIG. 3b is a detailed perspective view similar to FIG. 3a,
with the handle in the second position of FIG. 1b;
[0018] FIG. 3c is a detailed perspective view similar to FIG. 3b,
with the handle in the third position of FIG. 1c;
[0019] FIG. 4 is a partially exploded perspective view of the
faucet of FIG. 1, with a partial cut-away of the delivery spout to
show the water conduit extending therethrough;
[0020] FIG. 5a is a perspective view of an illustrative temperature
circuit assembly;
[0021] FIG. 5b is an exploded perspective view of the temperature
circuit assembly of FIG. 5a;
[0022] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the faucet
hub of FIG. 2, showing an illustrative temperature circuit assembly
and handle interface;
[0023] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the faucet hub of FIG.
6, showing the illustrative temperature circuit assembly and handle
interface;
[0024] FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of the illustrative
handle interface of FIG. 6;
[0025] FIG. 9a is a perspective view of an illustrative faucet of
the present disclosure including a pair of control handles, showing
each of the control handles in a first or off position;
[0026] FIG. 9b is a perspective view similar to FIG. 9a, showing
each of the control handles in a second or intermediate flow
position;
[0027] FIG. 9c is a perspective view similar to FIG. 9b, showing
each of the control handles in a third or full flow position;
[0028] FIG. 10a is a perspective view of an illustrative faucet of
the present disclosure including a control handle supporting a
rotatable dial, showing pull-out sprayhead coupled to a delivery
spout;
[0029] FIG. 10b is a perspective view of the illustrative faucet of
FIG. 10a, showing the pull-out sprayhead uncoupled from the
delivery spout;
[0030] FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view of the rotatable
dial of the control handle of FIG. 10a;
[0031] FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing connections between
components of the illustrative faucet of FIG. 10a;
[0032] FIG. 13 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line
13-13 of FIG. 10a;
[0033] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an illustrative faucet of
the present disclosure including a control handle, and a hub
supporting a rotatable dial;
[0034] FIG. 15 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line
15-15 of FIG. 14;
[0035] FIG. 16 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line
16-16 of FIG. 14; and
[0036] FIG. 17 is an exploded perspective view of the rotatable
dial of the hub of FIG. 14.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0037] FIGS. 1a-1c show a spout assembly 12 of an electronic faucet
10 of the present disclosure. In certain illustrative embodiments,
the electronic faucet 10 comprises a touch faucet. In the following
description, the term "touch faucet" is meant to indicate that flow
through the faucet 10 is activated by a user touching an outer
surface of the faucet 10. The user's touch may be detected by a
capacitive sensor. In other illustrative embodiments, the
electronic faucet 10 may be activated by other user interfaces, for
example, through infrared (IR) sensors or a manual handle. In
addition to spout assembly 12, faucet 10 includes other pieces,
both seen and unseen by a user and both above and below a mounting
surface 11, such as a sink deck.
[0038] FIG. 2 shows an illustrative electronic faucet 10 and its
components. Spout assembly 12 illustratively includes faucet body
or delivery spout 14, selector or handle 16, water parameter
control circuit assembly 18, water conduit 20, mounting shank 22,
base spacer 24, and gasket 26. Faucet 10 further illustratively
includes mounting bracket 78, spacer 80, nut 82, and electronic
flow controller 84.
[0039] FIGS. 3a-3c show additional details of the faucet 10 with
handle 16 in the various angular positions or configurations of
FIGS. 1a-1c, respectively. More particularly, FIGS. 1a and 3a
illustrate the faucet 10 in an off mode or setting with the handle
16 in a first angular position or configuration. FIGS. 1b and 3b
illustrate the faucet 10 in a mixed temperature mode or setting,
with the handle 16 in a second or intermediate angular position or
configuration. FIGS. 1c and 3c illustrate the faucet 10 in a full
hot temperature mode or setting, with the handle 16 in a third or
fully rotated angular position or configuration.
[0040] Illustrative delivery spout 14 includes body or hub 27, base
28, water temperature indicator window 29, handle attachment base
30, and upper extension 32. Hub 27 is illustratively hollow and
constructed from an electrically conductive metal or other
electrically conductive material (e.g., a polymer including an
electrically conductive filler). Hub 27 may telescope into upper
extension 32 as shown in FIG. 6. Upper extension 32 forms a
familiar curved faucet shape. Base 28 is sized, shaped, and located
to engage mounting surface 11. However, in certain installations,
such as those where mounting surface 11 is constructed from metal,
base spacer 24 is employed to prevent direct contact of delivery
spout 14 with mounting surface 11 for electrical isolation as
further discussed herein. Base 28 defines a plane along its lower
edge. When assembled to mounting surface 11, the base plane lies
along the top of mounting surface 11.
[0041] Water temperature indicator window 29 is a translucent
member constructed from glass, thermoplastic, or other material.
Water temperature indicator window 29 is disposed in delivery spout
14 on a side thereof that is most often expected to be facing the
user (in the same direction as the curve of upper extension
32).
[0042] In the illustrative embodiment of FIGS. 1-8, handle
attachment base 30 generally extends horizontally to the right (as
viewed from the front) from hub 27. Handle attachment base 30 has a
longitudinal base axis 39 that is illustratively perpendicular to a
longitudinal axis 31 of the hub 27, from which handle attachment
base 30 extends (FIGS. 6 and 7). The end of handle attachment base
30 farthest from hub 27 presents a handle interface surface 34,
supporting handle 16 for rotation about rotational axis 35.
Illustratively, rotational axis 35 extends perpendicularly to
handle interface surface 34. Handle interface surface 34 faces
upwardly from longitudinal base axis 39 at an angle, illustratively
forty-five degrees, such that the lower side of the handle
attachment base 30 extends farther away from hub 27 than the upper
side of handle attachment base 30. Handle attachment base 30
includes an attachment bore 36 disposed therein. Attachment bore 36
is at least partially threaded and extends perpendicularly to
handle interface surface 34 along rotational axis 35.
[0043] With further reference to FIGS. 6-8, handle attachment base
30 further includes axle bore 38 defined therein that extends from
handle interface surface 34 to within hub 27. Axle bore 38
illustratively extends parallel to the longitudinal axis 39 of
handle attachment base 30 but is vertically offset therefrom.
Handle attachment base 30 further includes teeth clearance bore 41
proximate the intersection of axle bore 38 and attachment bore 36.
Clearance bore 41 extends in an arc (e.g., forming a semi-circle)
about attachment bore 36 for providing space to allow teeth 76 of
handle 16, discussed below, to be received therein.
[0044] Axle 44 extends within axle bore 38. Axle 44 includes a
distal end 46 that includes a plurality of teeth 47 disposed
radially thereon. A sealing o-ring 49 is illustratively supported
at distal end 46 of axle 44. Axle 44 further includes proximal end
48 that presents interface surfaces, illustratively notches 50,
designed and shaped to interface with and seat within gear hub 52
such that relative rotation of axle 44 to gear hub 52 is not
permitted (i.e., rotatably couples axle 44 with gear hub 52) (FIGS.
5a and 5b).
[0045] Passage bore 40 extends throughout delivery spout 14,
including hub 27, upper extension 32, and base 28. Passage bore 40
thereby provides a passageway that extends from the lower end of
base 28 to an open or outlet end 42 of upper extension 32. At the
lower end of base 28, passage bore 40 presents a threaded portion
54.
[0046] With reference to FIGS. 4 and 8, handle 16 includes trim
piece or cover 56, handle body 58, bushing 60, o-ring 62, and bolt
64. Trim piece 56 illustratively has an outer diameter
substantially equal to the outer diameter of handle attachment base
30. Trim piece 56 is largely hollow and presents bore 66 therein
sized to snuggly (e.g., through a friction fit) receive handle body
58 therein. Trim piece 56 is illustratively constructed from a
conductive material, such as a metal. Handle body 58 is comprised
of a main body 68 and an extension portion 70. Main body 68 is
sized (length and diameter) to be received within bore 66.
Extension portion 70 is disposed at a proximal end of handle body
58 and is designed to extend out of trim piece 56 to prevent direct
contact of trim piece 56 and handle attachment base 30. Both trim
piece 56 and handle body 58 present an angled base interface
surface 71, illustratively at forty-five degrees, relative to a
longitudinal axis 72 of handle 16. A selector movement plane 73 is
defined intermediate the handle interface surface 34 and the base
interface surface 71 and extends parallel thereto. Proximal end of
extension portion 70 includes a plurality of teeth 76 disposed in
an arc and sized, shaped, and located to interface with teeth 47 of
axle 44.
[0047] Proximal end of main body 68 and extension portion 70
includes an attachment bore 74 therein. Attachment bore 74 is sized
to receive bushing 60 and o-ring 62 therein. Bolt 64 is further
received within an inner bore of bushing 60 as shown in FIGS. 6-8.
Bolt 64 further extends into attachment bore 36 to threadably
secure handle 16 to handle attachment base 30. Once so attached,
teeth 76 are positioned to interface with teeth 47 of axle 44.
Furthermore, once so attached, handle 16 is able to freely rotate
about bushing 60 and against handle attachment base 30. Such
rotation causes teeth 76 to induce rotation in axle 44. A stop pin
77 is illustratively coupled to extension portion 70 to rotate with
handle 16 (FIG. 8). By engaging limit surfaces 79a and 79b, stop
pin 77 limits rotational travel of handle 16 (e.g., to 180
degrees).
[0048] Water parameter control circuit assembly 18 illustratively
comprises a temperature/flow circuit assembly and is further
illustrated in FIGS. 5a and 5b. Water parameter control circuit
assembly 18 illustratively includes a sleeve or support sheath 86,
a circuit board 88, a first gear 90, and a second gear 92. Support
sheath 86 is substantially cylindrical, having an outer diameter
sized to fit within passage bore 40 of hub 27. Support sheath 86
also includes an inner passage 87 that permits tube 124 of water
conduit 20 to pass therethrough. Support sheath 86 further includes
a recessed side that provides a mounting surface for circuit board
88, first gear 90, and second gear 92. More specifically, support
sheath 86 provides a first hub 96 upon which first gear 90
rotatably mounts, a second hub 98 upon which second gear 92
rotatably mounts, calibration hub 99, and circuit board clips 100
that retain circuit board 88 thereto. While circuit board 88 is
illustratively mounted to support sheath 86 via clips 100, other
conventional fasteners may be substituted therefor.
[0049] Circuit board 88 illustratively includes a light emitting
diode (LED) 102, a clip 104, a pin interface 106, and a
potentiometer 108. LED 102 may comprise a pair of LED's (e.g., a
red LED and a blue LED), that are electrically coupled to circuit
board 88 and configured to selectively emit red, blue, and various
combinations of red and blue (purples, violets, etc.) to indicate
the temperature of water being delivered by faucet 10. LED 102 is
illustratively aligned behind water temperature indicator window
29. Clip 104 is illustratively conductive and spring biased. In the
illustrative embodiment, clip 104 is doubled over to have a
spring-like section that, when placed within passage bore 40, will
engage the inner surface of hub 27 to provide electrical coupling
therebetween.
[0050] Pin interface 106 is shown as an eight pin interface. One
pin is electrically coupled to LED 102 to transmit power to the red
LED 102. A second pin is electrically coupled to LED 102 to
transmit power to the blue LED 102. A third pin is coupled to
circuit board 88 to transmit an I.sup.2C Clock signal. A fourth pin
is coupled to circuit board 88 to transmit 3.3V power. A fifth pin
provides ground to circuit board 88. A sixth pin is coupled to
potentiometer 108 and transmits I.sup.2C data thereon. A seventh
pin provides a 1.8V dial reference voltage for potentiometer 108.
An eighth pin is coupled to clip 104 and various other sensing
circuitry, such as a capacitive sensor for transmitting an
indication that a user has touched delivery spout 14. Pin interface
106 receives a header of a pin wire 110 (FIG. 2) coupled to
electronic flow controller 84.
[0051] With reference to FIG. 5b, potentiometer 108 is electrically
coupled to circuit board 88 and contains a rotatable keyway 111
centrally located therein. Keyway 111 is sized and shaped to
receive a keyed post 112 of second gear 92. Rotation of keyed post
112 causes rotation of rotatable keyway 111 to alter the resistance
presented by potentiometer 108 to circuit board 88.
[0052] First gear 90 is generally circular with gear hub 52 located
centrally thereon and including radially outwardly extending teeth
113. Gear hub 52 defines a central bore 114 therethrough. As most
easily seen in FIGS. 5a and 5b, gear hub 52 includes retaining
fingers 115, illustratively presenting a sinusoidal surface, to
interface with interface surfaces or notches 50 of axle 44.
Accordingly, when proximal end of axle 44 is received in central
bore 114, axle 44 and first gear 90 are rotatably coupled. Central
bore 114 further receives first hub 96 such that first gear 90 is
rotatably supported by support sheath 86. When mounted on first hub
96, and circuit board 88 is mounted on support sheath 86, first
gear 90 is secured to water parameter control circuit assembly 18.
Furthermore, when secured, gear hub 52 extends through a hole 117
in circuit board 88.
[0053] Similarly, second gear 92 is generally circular with keyed
post 112 located centrally thereon and including radially outwardly
extending teeth 119. Second gear 92 further includes a hub bore 116
defined therein to permit mounting of second gear 92 on second hub
98 (FIGS. 5 and 7). Mounting gears 90, 92 on hubs 96, 98 provide
that the teeth 113, 119 of gears 90, 92 engage such that rotation
of first gear 90 induces rotation in the second gear 92.
Accordingly, rotation of axle 44 is translated to potentiometer 108
via gears 90, 92. Second gear 92 further includes calibration
groove 93 defined therein (FIG. 7). Calibration groove 93 is
positioned such that when second gear 92 is mounted on second hub
98, calibration hub 99 is received within calibration groove 93.
Calibration groove 93 defines an arc within second gear 92, but
illustratively does not define a closed circle. Ends of calibration
groove 93 may define movement stop points or limits for second gear
92 that may be calibrated with potentiometer 108, as further
detailed herein.
[0054] Referring further to FIG. 2, water conduit 20 includes
aerator assembly 118, o-ring 120, distal fitting 122, tube 124, and
proximal fitting 126. Aerator assembly 118 may comprise a
conventional faucet aerator that threadably couples to the distal
or outlet end 42 of upper extension 32. O-ring 120 is disposed
between aerator assembly 118 and distal fitting 122 in assembly and
prevents leaks at the connection therebetween. Tube 124 extends
from distal fitting 122 through spout assembly 12, and water
parameter control circuit assembly 18 to proximal fitting 126.
Proximal fitting 126 is illustratively a quick connect fitting
sized and shaped to be readily connected and disconnected from a
quick connect receiver 130 of electronic flow controller 84.
[0055] Electronic flow controller 84 illustratively includes a
housing 132, pin wire port 109, quick connect receiver 130, power
connector 134, hot water inlet 136, cold water inlet 138, and at
least one electrically operably valve 140. In certain illustrative
embodiments, the valve 140 comprises a mixing valve or a cycling
valve configured to receive and mix water flow from hot water and
cold water inlets 136 and 138. In other illustrative embodiments,
the valve 140 comprises a pair of proportional valves, one for
controlling hot water flow from hot water inlet 136 and one for
controlling cold water flow from cold water inlet 138. Pin wire 110
is illustratively coupled to electronics 139 within housing 132 by
being received in pin wire port 109. Quick connect receiver 130
illustratively receives proximal fitting 126 and is secured thereto
by retaining clip 141. Quick connect receiver 130 serves as a water
outlet from electronic flow controller 84. Quick connect receiver
130 readily releases proximal fitting 126 upon release of retaining
clip 140. Power connector 134 readily couples to power source via a
nine-Volt battery type coupler. A temperature sensor 142,
illustratively a thermistor, is configured to measure water
temperature downstream of valve 140. More particularly, temperature
sensor 142 is positioned within housing 132 in the passageway
fluidly coupling valve 140 to receiver 130.
[0056] Water inlets 136, 138 couple to household hot and cold water
supplies (330, 332 in FIG. 12). The valve 140 selectively opens and
closes to allow water from inlets 136, 138 to flow to receiver 130.
In the illustrative embodiment, valve 140 is a cycling valve
including a disc (not shown) rotatable by an electric motor,
wherein rotation in a counterclockwise direction causes the disc to
initiate flow and then provide water exclusively from the cold
water inlet 136, to a mix of water from the cold water and hot
water inlets 136 and 138, to water exclusively from the hot water
inlet 138 (i.e., off setting, to a cold water temperature setting,
to a mixed water temperature setting, to a hot water temperature
setting). Electronics 139 within housing 132 may include a
processor for controlling operation of the valves 140 to dictate
the flow and temperature of the water output at receiver 130 and
ultimately at outlet 42 of delivery spout 14.
[0057] During assembly, aerator assembly 118, o-ring 120, and
distal fitting 122 are coupled to tube 124 and placed in passage
bore 40. Water conduit 20 is fed through inner passage 87 of water
parameter control circuit assembly 18 and out of base 28. Proximal
fitting 126 is then attached to tube 124.
[0058] Pin wire 110 is passed through nut 82, spacer 80, mounting
bracket 78, gasket 26, (optionally base spacer 24 as discussed
below), and shank 22 and then seated within pin interface 106 of
circuit board 88. Support sheath 86 is then inserted into passage
bore 40 of hub 27 such that gear hub 52 axially aligns with axle
bore 38. Axle 44 is then inserted into axle bore 38 such that
interface surfaces 50 of proximal end 48 engage gear hub 52.
Indicator window 29 is also inserted into hub 27 to seat within
support sheath 86. Shank 22 is then threadably engaged to threaded
portion 54 of base 28 to further retain water parameter control
circuit assembly 18 within passage bore 40.
[0059] Once axle 44 is inserted, it is rotated either to a full
clockwise or full counterclockwise position. The full
clockwise/counterclockwise position is determined when respective
ends of calibration groove 93 of second gear 92 abut calibration
hub 99. This full clockwise/counterclockwise position is then used
to properly attach handle body 58 in either a full hot or off
position, respectively. Accordingly, the hot/cold/off position of
handle body 58 will properly correspond to the rotation of keyway
111. In other words, potentiometer 108 is properly calibrated to
the rotational position of handle 16.
[0060] Handle body 58 attachment is achieved by aligning it such
that attachment bore 74 aligns with attachment bore 36 and teeth 76
of extension portion 70 of handle body 58 engage teeth 47 of distal
end 46 of axle 44. Bushing 60 is then located within attachment
bore 74 and teeth clearance bore 41 and bolt 64 is placed within
bushing 60 and threadably secured to attachment bore 36. Once
handle body 58 is secured to handle attachment base 30, trim piece
56 is secured on handle body 58. As previously noted, handle body
58 is constructed from a non-conductive material. Accordingly,
handle body 58 electrically isolates trim piece 56 from delivery
spout 14. Thus, a user may touch handle 16 and not cause activation
of valve 140 by the capacitance sensor (e.g., toggle the on/off
setting of faucet 10).
[0061] Faucet 10 is then ready for mounting to mounting surface 11.
If mounting surface 11 is a metal surface, base spacer 24 is
mounted on shank 22. Base spacer 24 has a height that prevents base
28 from contacting mounting surface 11 when mounted. As noted,
faucet 10 is a touch faucet. As discussed in more detail herein, a
user's touch of delivery spout 14 causes activation and
deactivation of flow in faucet 10 by controlling operation of valve
140. Without the use of base spacer 24 with a metal mounting
surface 11, a user's touch of mounting surface 11 could
unintentionally cause activation or deactivation of flow in faucet
10. Gasket 26 is located under base 28 (or under base spacer 24 if
used) to seal delivery spout 14 to mounting surface 11.
[0062] Under mounting surface 11, mounting bracket 78 receives
shank 22 and is positioned flush to the underside of mounting
surface 11. Spacer 80 may also be placed on shank 22 and abutted to
mounting bracket 78. Nut 82 is threadably engaged to shank 22 and
is tightened to clamp delivery spout 14, shank 22, mounting bracket
78, and spacer 80 to secure delivery spout 14 on mounting surface
11.
[0063] Electronic flow controller 84 is illustratively mounted
below mounting surface 11. As previously noted, pin wire 110 is
mounted in pin interface 106. Proximal fitting 126 is secured in
receiver 130. Hot and cold water supplies are coupled to hot water
inlet 136 and cold water inlet 138, respectively. A power source,
such as a battery pack (not shown) is attached to power connector
134.
[0064] In operation, a user pulls or rotates handle 16 out of the
first or off position (vertical position as shown in FIGS. 1a and
3a) to start water flow from faucet 10. In the first position, the
longitudinal handle axis 72 extends at angle .alpha. to rotational
axis 35, and extends at angle .beta. to longitudinal base axis 39.
In the illustrative embodiment, angle .alpha. is 45 degrees and
angle .beta. is 90 degrees when handle is in the first position of
FIGS. 1a and 3a. Once initiated, water flow in the illustrative
faucet 10 may be arrested or stopped by returning handle 16 to the
vertical position or by touching delivery spout 14. A user's touch
of delivery spout 14, via the electrical connection provided by
clip 104, alters the capacitance of a circuit (e.g., capacitive
sensor) at least partially disposed on circuit board 88. This
change in capacitance is communicated to electronic flow controller
84 via pin wire 110. Electronic flow controller 84 interprets this
change in capacitance as a call to toggle the on/off setting of the
flow condition of faucet 10. Electronic flow controller 84 then
opens (or closes) valve 140 to toggle flow condition of faucet
10.
[0065] The user may adjust the position of handle 16 to indicate a
desired water temperature. Positioning or rotating handle 16 just
barely out of vertical, calls for water at the coldest setting. A
user may pull or rotate handle 16 towards him/her to adjust the
temperature setting, wherein increased rotation toward the
horizontal position of FIGS. 1c and 3c increases the temperature
setting. Pulling handle 16 causes rotation of handle 16 about bolt
64 and bushing 60. This rotation allows infinitely adjustable
positioning of handle 16.
[0066] FIGS. 1b and 3b show a second or intermediate position of
handle 16 defining a mixed or intermediate water temperature
setting. More particularly, handle 16 has been rotated from the
first position of FIG. 3a about rotational axis 35 by approximately
80 degrees. Potentiometer 108 detects the rotated position of
handle 16 in the manner detailed herein, such that controller 84
causes valve 140 to provide mixed water flow from both hot water
inlet 136 and cold water inlet 138 thereby providing an
intermediate temperature to water provided to outlet end 42 of
delivery spout 14. As illustrated in FIG. 3b, angle .alpha. between
longitudinal handle axis 72 and rotational axis 35 is maintained at
45 degrees. However, angle .beta. between longitudinal handle axis
72 and longitudinal base axis 39 varies as handle 16 is rotated. In
FIG. 3b, angle .beta. is substantially equal to 65 degrees. In
other words, angle .alpha. stays substantially constant, while
angle .beta. varies as handle 16 is rotated about rotational axis
35.
[0067] FIGS. 1c and 3c show handle 16 in a third or hot temperature
position (horizontal position as shown in FIGS. 1c and 3c) that
calls for water at the hottest setting. More particularly, handle
16 has been rotated from the second position of FIG. 3b about
rotational axis 35 by approximately 100 degrees. In other words,
handle 16 has been rotated from the first position of FIG. 3a about
rotational axis 35 by approximately 180 degrees. Potentiometer 108
detects the rotated position of handle 16 in the manner detailed
herein, such that controller 84 causes valve 140 to provide mixed
water flow from only hot water inlet 136 thereby providing a hot
temperature to water provided to outlet end 42 of delivery spout
14. As illustrated in FIG. 3c, angle .alpha. between longitudinal
handle axis 72 and rotational axis 35 is maintained at 45 degrees.
However, angle .beta. between longitudinal handle axis 72 and
longitudinal base axis 39 varies as handle 16 is rotated. In FIG.
3c, angle .beta. is substantially equal to 0 degrees, since the
longitudinal handle axis 72 is coaxially aligned with the
longitudinal base axis 39. As noted above, angle .alpha. stays
substantially constant, while angle .beta. varies as handle 16 is
rotated about rotational axis 35 from the first position of FIG.
3a, through the second position of FIG. 3b, to the third position
of FIG. 3c.
[0068] The rotation of handle 16 and the rotation of attached teeth
76 induces rotation of axle 44 via teeth 47. Rotation of axle 44
causes rotation of first gear 90 which causes rotation of second
gear 92. Rotation of second gear 92 causes rotation of rotatable
keyway 111. Rotation of rotatable keyway 111 alters the resistance
of potentiometer 108 as seen by circuit board 88. The resistance of
potentiometer 108 seen by circuit board 88 is communicated to
electronic flow controller 84 via pin wire 110. Electronic flow
controller 84 then adjusts valve 140 that gate hot water inlet 136
and cold water inlet 138 to adjust the temperature of the water
output at receiver 130 and therefore outlet end 42 of delivery
spout 14. Temperature sensor 142 provides feedback to circuit board
88 of water temperature at the outlet of valve 140.
[0069] More particularly, temperature sensor 142 is also present
within electronic flow controller 84. The temperature sensor 142
detects the temperature of the water delivered to receiver 130. The
temperature sensor 142 also outputs an electrical signal indicative
of the sensed temperature. Electronic flow controller 84 interprets
this electrical signal and outputs another electrical signal on pin
wire 110. This signal on pin wire 110 operates to control the color
of light emitted by led 102. Light emitted by LED 102 shines
through water temperature indicator window 29 to be viewable by the
user. LED 102 provides a blue light to indicate relatively cold
water. LED 102 provides a red light to indicate relatively hot
water. LED 102 provides mixtures of red and blue light (purple,
violet, etc.) to indicate the spectrum between hot and cold.
[0070] Accordingly, the position of handle 16 is viewable by the
user to provide a visual indication of the approximate temperature
being requested. LED 102 is viewable by the user to provide a
visual indication of the approximate temperature being realized at
aerator assembly 118 at outlet end 42 of delivery spout 14.
[0071] FIGS. 9a-9c show another illustrative embodiment faucet 210
including a delivery spout 212 extending between a pair of handles
216a, 216b. The two handle faucet 210 includes handle 216a which
controls cold water flow to delivery spout 212 (illustratively
through cold water inlet 138) and a hot water handle 216b which
controls hot water flow to delivery spout 212 (illustratively
through hot water inlet 136). Spout 212 and handles 216a, 216b are
supported by mounting surface 11, illustratively a sink deck.
[0072] Handles 216a, 216b are each supported by a respective
attachment base 227a, 227b along an angled interface plane 273a,
273b. In the illustrative embodiment, the interface planes 273a,
273b are angled approximately 45 degrees from horizontal. Each
attachment base 227a, 227b extends vertically along a respective
longitudinal base axis 239a, 239b, while each handle 216a, 216b
extends along a respective longitudinal handle axis 272a, 272b. The
handles 216a, 216b are each rotatable about a respective rotational
axis 235a, 235b extending perpendicular to the associated interface
plane 273a, 273b. More particularly, each handle 216a, 216b may be
supported for rotational movement relative to respective attachment
base 227a, 227b in a manner similar to the manner in which handle
16 is operably coupled to attachment base 30, as detailed above in
connection with faucet 10. Additionally, handles 216a, 216b may
each be configured to operably couple to water parameter control
circuit assembly 18 similar to that detailed above. However, in the
illustrative faucet 210, the water parameter control circuit
assembly 18 is configured to communicate with electronic flow
controller 84 to control flow rate through hot water inlet 136 in
response to rotation of handle 216b, and to control flow rate
through cold water inlet 138 in response to rotation of handle 216a
through hot water inlet 136.
[0073] FIG. 9a illustrates both handles 216a, 216b in their
respective first or off positions, illustratively with each
longitudinal handle axis 272a, 272b extending perpendicular to the
longitudinal base axis 239a, 239b in a horizontal direction. In the
off position, the water parameter control circuit assembly 18
associated with each handle 216a, 216b sends a signal of handle
position to the flow controller 84 which instructs respective
electrically operable flow control valves 140 to block water flow
through water inlets 136 and 138.
[0074] FIG. 9b illustrates both handles 216a, 216b in second or
intermediate flow positions, wherein each handle 216a, 216b has
been rotated by approximately 80 degrees about respective
rotational axis 235a, 235b toward the user from the off position of
FIG. 9a. In the intermediate flow position of FIG. 9b, the water
parameter control circuit assembly 18 associated with each handle
216a, 216b sends a signal of handle position to the flow controller
84 which instructs respective electrically operable flow control
valves 140 to permit restricted water flow through hot and cold
water inlets 136 and 138 at an intermediate flow rate.
[0075] FIG. 9c illustrates both handles 216a, 216b in third or full
flow positions, wherein each handle 216a, 216b has been rotated by
approximately 100 degrees about respective rotational axis 235a,
235b toward the user from the second position of FIG. 9b. In the
third position of FIG. 9c, each longitudinal handle axis 272a, 272b
extends in a vertical direction and is coaxially aligned with
respective longitudinal base axis 239a, 239b. The water parameter
control circuit assembly 18 associated with each handle 216a, 216b
sends a signal of handle position to the flow controller 84 which
instructs respective electrically operable flow control valves 140
to permit full water flow through hot and cold water inlets 136 and
138.
[0076] With reference now to FIGS. 10a-13, a further illustrative
faucet 310 is shown. The faucet 310 includes many similar
components as the faucet 10 detailed above. As such, similar
components will be identified with like references numbers.
[0077] Illustrative faucet 310 includes spout assembly 312 having a
faucet body or delivery spout 314, and a selector or control handle
316. Illustrative delivery spout 314 includes body or hub 27,
mounting base 28, water temperature indicator window 29, handle
attachment base 30, and upper extension 32. The mounting base 28
illustratively couples the hub 27 to mounting surface 11.
[0078] Illustratively, a pullout sprayhead 322 is removably coupled
to a distal end 323 of the delivery spout 314. The sprayhead 322
illustratively includes a water outlet 326 fluidly coupled to a
flexible tube 324 slidably received within the delivery spout 314.
More particularly, FIG. 10a shows the sprayhead 322 coupled to the
distal end 323 of the delivery spout 314, and FIG. 10b shows the
sprayhead 322 uncoupled from, and in spaced relation to, the distal
end 323 of the delivery spout 314. The flexible tube 324 is fluidly
coupled to an outlet of the electrically operable valve 140. As
detailed above, water inlets 136, 138 of the electrically operable
valve 140 couple to household hot and cold water supplies 330, 332
(FIG. 12).
[0079] Control handle 316 is essentially the same as control handle
16 detailed above, with the exception of additional selector or
control dial 328. More particularly, the control handle 316 is
supported for movement in the manner detailed above with respect to
handle 16 in connection with FIGS. 3a-3c.
[0080] With reference to FIGS. 12 and 13, a first position or
handle sensor, illustratively potentiometer 108, is operably
coupled to the handle 316. More particularly, the potentiometer 108
detects the rotational position of the handle 316 about rotational
axis 35 and provides a signal indicative thereof to electronic flow
controller 84. The electronic flow controller 84 is in electrical
communication with the electrically operable valve 140, wherein
rotation of the handle 316 as detected by the potentiometer 108
controls a first water parameter (e.g., water flow rate) via
operation of the electrically operable valve 140 by the controller
84.
[0081] With further reference to FIGS. 11-13, the control dial 328
is supported for rotation about the longitudinal axis 72 of the
handle 316 for controlling a second water parameter (e.g., water
temperature). The control dial 328 illustratively includes an outer
cover 334 coupled to an inner core 336. The outer cover 334 and the
inner core 336 are supported for rotation about the longitudinal
axis 72. The inner core 336 includes a retainer 335 (e.g., an
o-ring) to assist in retaining the outer cover 334 on the inner
core 336. The inner core 336 illustratively includes a downwardly
extending arm or tab 337 operably coupled to a potentiometer 338
supported on circuit board 340, thereby defining a second position
or dial sensor 342. As may appreciated, rotation of the control
dial 328 is transmitted to the potentiometer 338 via the tab 337.
The potentiometer 338 is illustratively in communication with the
controller 84 via wires 352. The wires 352 are configured to extend
through an inner bore 354 of a bushing or threaded sleeve 350 to
circuit board 88 supported within the hub 318.
[0082] As detailed above, rotation of the control handle 316 about
the rotational axis 35 controls the first water parameter, while
rotation of the control dial 328 about the longitudinal axis 72
controls the second water parameter. In the illustrative
embodiment, the first water parameter comprises water flow rate of
water discharged from the water outlet 326, and the second water
parameter comprises water temperature of water discharged from the
water outlet 326. It should be appreciated that alternative
embodiments the first water parameter may comprise water
temperature, while the second water parameter may comprise water
flow rate.
[0083] The control handle 316 in a first rotational position
defines a first setting of the flow rate, while the control handle
316 in a second rotational position defines a second setting of the
flow rate. Similarly, rotation of the control dial 328 to a first
position defines a first setting of the water temperature, and
rotation of the control dial 328 to a second position defines a
second setting of the water temperature.
[0084] With reference now to FIGS. 14-17, a further illustrative
faucet 410 is shown. The faucet 410 includes many similar
components as the faucet 310 detailed above. As such, similar
components will be identified with like references numbers.
[0085] Illustrative faucet 410 includes spout assembly 412 having
faucet body or delivery spout 314, and selector or control handle
16. The illustrative control handle 416 is further detailed above.
Illustrative delivery spout 314 includes a body or hub 418,
mounting base 28, handle attachment base 30, and upper extension
32. The mounting base 28 illustratively couples the hub 318 to
mounting surface 11. The base 28 is illustratively supported above
an illumination insulator spacer 428 including a light, such as LED
102.
[0086] The hub 418 of the faucet 410 illustratively supports a
control dial 426 for rotation about the longitudinal axis 419 of
the hub 418. The control dial 426 illustratively includes an inner
ring 432 coupled to an outer dial 430. The inner ring 432 supports
a magnet 434 configured to be detected by a second position or dial
sensor 436, such as a Hall-effect sensor. The sensor 436 is
illustratively supported on circuit board 88 supported within the
hub 418.
[0087] As may appreciated, rotation of the control dial 426 and
corresponding magnet 434 is detected by the sensor 436. The sensor
436 is illustratively in communication with the controller 84.
[0088] As detailed above, rotation of the control handle 16 about
the rotational axis 35 controls the first water parameter, while
rotation of the control dial 426 about the longitudinal axis 419
controls the second water parameter. In the illustrative
embodiment, the first water parameter comprises water flow rate of
water discharged from the water outlet 326, and the second water
parameter comprises water temperature of water discharged from the
water outlet 326. It should be appreciated that alternative
embodiments the first water parameter may comprise water
temperature, while the second water parameter may comprise water
flow rate.
[0089] The control handle 16 in a first rotational position defines
a first setting of the flow rate, while the control handle 16 in a
second rotational position defines a second setting of the flow
rate. Similarly, rotation of the control dial 426 to a first
position defines a first setting of the water temperature, and
rotation of the control dial 426 to a second position defines a
second setting of the water temperature.
[0090] Although the disclosure has been described in detail with
reference to certain preferred embodiments, variations and
modifications exist within the spirit and scope of the disclosure
as described and defined in the following claims.
* * * * *